In a World Series unlike any other, the Arizona Diamondbacks and Texas Rangers have defied expectations to reach baseball’s grandest stage. Both teams, each with a record of more than 100 losses just two years ago, have clawed their way to the World Series. This unprecedented clash promises thrilling baseball action, and per MLB.com, here’s a position-by-position breakdown to shed light on this intriguing showdown.
Catcher
The catcher position is a strength for both teams. Arizona acquired highly touted prospect Gabriel Moreno through a significant trade, while Texas found late-blooming star Jonah Heim. Moreno and Heim boast comparable regular-season hitting statistics, but Moreno’s late-season surge gives him a slight edge. Additionally, Moreno excels in framing pitches, while both catchers are skilled at throwing.
Advantage: D-backs
First Base
Christian Walker’s elite defensive skills set him apart as the best defensive first baseman in the league. While Nathaniel Lowe has made significant defensive improvements, Walker’s superior performance gives the D-backs an advantage.
Advantage: D-backs
Second Base
Ketel Marte holds a 16-game postseason hitting streak, while Marcus Semien has struggled in October. Surprisingly, Marte outperformed Semien in the regular season. Although Semien is an elite defender, Marte’s accomplishments make this position favor the D-backs.
Advantage: D-backs
Shortstop
Corey Seager’s exceptional season and remarkable postseason hitting streak make him an outstanding talent. In comparison, Geraldo Perdomo, though a nice player, doesn’t match up to Seager’s caliber.
Advantage: Rangers
Third Base
Neither team’s third baseman has performed well in the postseason. Arizona uses Evan Longoria and Emmanuel Rivera, but their offensive contributions have been underwhelming. On the other hand, Texas rookie Josh Jung, with three postseason homers, has outperformed the D-backs’ options.
Advantage: Rangers
Left Field
Texas rookie Evan Carter has been exceptional, both offensively and defensively, making him a valuable asset. In contrast, Lourdes Gurriel Jr. has had an inconsistent postseason for the D-backs. Texas has the edge in left field.
Advantage: Rangers
Center Field
Both teams feature capable defensive center fielders with similar OPS+. Leody Taveras, with a slightly better regular-season performance and improved on-base percentage in October, provides Texas with a small advantage.
Advantage: Rangers
Right Field
Corbin Carroll and Adolis García are both standout performers. Carroll’s impressive regular season and baserunning prowess are notable, while García’s remarkable postseason hitting, including seven homers, is remarkable. García’s strong throwing arm is a significant difference.
Advantage: Rangers (Slight)
Designated Hitter Mitch Garver’s postseason grand slam and impressive slugging during the regular season make him the Rangers’ DH. Tommy Pham, while offering a tough at-bat, has struggled in October. Garver’s slugging prowess gives Texas an advantage.
Advantage: Rangers
Starting Pitching
Both teams have top starters, but the Rangers have a deeper rotation, giving them a slight edge. Jordan Montgomery’s exceptional postseason performance adds to Texas’s strength. The D-backs lack a reliable fourth starter, forcing them to use an opener.
Advantage: Rangers
Relief Pitching
The bullpens of both teams have their struggles. While the D-backs and Rangers have performed better in the postseason, Arizona’s bullpen is slightly more reliable, featuring Paul Sewald and Kevin Ginkel.
Advantage: D-backs
Prediction
In a series marked by uncertainty and close matchups, the D-backs have a slightly more trustworthy bullpen. These two teams, less visible on the national stage, promise exciting and unpredictable baseball. A bullpen’s reliability often decides these contests, making Arizona a strong contender.
Prediction: D-backs in 7
